UK ice hockey legend Andre Payette has been found dead, aged just 46.
The former Coventry Blaze fan favourite was part of their Grand Slam-winning 2004-05 side and also represented Newcastle Vipers, Manchester Phoenix, Sheffield Steeldogs and Whitley Warriors during his days in the UK.
He also coached in Sheffield and spent two years as commercial director for the Hull Pirates.
Most recently, Payette was coach of Mackenzie Mountaineers in his native Canada.
In a statement, the Blaze said: "Everyone at the Coventry Blaze is saddened to hear of the passing of former player Andre Payette.
"Andre was found dead on Wednesday 28th September at the age of 46.
"Payette maintained many close connections to the Blaze, and our thoughts are with son Oliver, the rest of his family and many friends at this very sad time."
Sheffield Steeldogs added: "Everyone at the Sheffield Steeldogs is shocked and saddened to hear of the passing of our former player/coach Andre Payette.
"Our condolences go to his family and friends at this difficult time. We will remember Andre at our game on Sunday."
Payette was selected 244th overall in the 1994 NHL draft by the Philadelphia Flyers, and won a Calder Cup with the Flyers' AHL affiliate the Philadelphia Phantoms.
Known as an enforcer, Payette was no stranger to dropping the gloves and fighting on the ice, amassing over 3,000 penalty minutes during his years in the UK.
He played one season in Coventry after arriving in 2004 before making the switch to Newcastle, where he represented the Vipers four four years.
Payette then played a solitary season with Manchester Phoenix before switching to the Sheffield Steeldogs where he spent five years as both a player and coach.
His time in the UK ended back in the north east with the Whitley Warriors, who he left in 2017.
